Bertie denies political favouritism

Fianna Fail leader Bertie Ahern says that businessman Joe Burke was appointed chairman of the Dublin Port Company on merit and not because of “political cronyism” as suggested by the opposition.

Facing accusations of political favouritism from Fine Gael and Labour, the Fianna Fail leader said: “I am very disappointed that that would be said about Joe Burke. While I was most anxious to see him on the board because he has a huge interest in the board and is a friend of mine, his nomination as chairman by the Minister for the Marine was because of his knowledge.”

Last night Fine Gael’s Alan Dukes claimed that Mr Burke’s appointment was the latest in a long line of “Fianna Fail cronyism”.

Yesterday, Progressive Democrats leader Mary Harney said her party had not been consulted on the appointment, but said she would not use to issue for political gain.